On Sunday 24 February, Mental Health International (MHI) and World Diabetes International co-host the Australian Chinese Mental Health Professionals High-Level Forum. Amongst over 100 guests, were well-known mental health experts, academics, and famous leaders of Chinese and multicultural communities. Dignitaries attending the event and giving a speech included Federal Member for Berowra Julian Leeser MP, State Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee MP, Chairman of MHI Professor Richard Lu JP, well-known American psychologist Dr Laurie Ann Levin, Scientia Professor of University of New South Wales Philip Mitchell, Board member of Lifeline – Harbour to Hawkesbury Barbara Ward, Chairman of Multicultural NSW Dr Hari Harinath, Emeritus Mayor of Auburn City Council Le Lam, Emeritus Mayor of Hurstville City Council Philip Sansom, and Sydney University Professor Ying Jie Guo.
The Forum’s aim was to raise awareness about the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions in community, and make psychology research more accessible to community members.
Barbara Ward was acknowledged for her continued and outstanding contribution to the mental wellbeing of community members and advancement of our knowledge in prevention and treatment of mental health conditions, MHI presented the “Community Mental Health Service Award” to Ms Ward which was presented by Chairman of MHI Prof Richard Lu JP.